Gaylord, Michigan
Michaywé Pines delivers a classic, tree-lined northern Michigan experience with strong conditioning and genuine shot variety. Its strategic, playable layout rewards ball-striking and smart misses—leaving golfers satisfied and eager for a return. While it’s not a national headline-maker, it’s a favorite for value and fun in the Gaylord region.
Look for the course’s signature bluebird houses nestled beside select tee boxes—a nod to the club’s commitment to local wildlife habitat and a subtle feature unique to the Pines.
Michaywé Pines is a study in classic parkland strategy—tree-lined corridors winding through northern Michigan pines and birch, smartly placed bunkers, and a routing that alternates scoring chances and exacting two-shotters. Precision off the tee trumps brute length here, and the course encourages shaping shots and managing angles rather than overpowering every hole. The 2004 Childs renovation polished its original character, emphasizing playability and strong turf conditions while staying true to its northern woods identity.
Bills and Childs crafted a playable, classically strategic Michigan parkland, updated by Childs in 2004 for modern turf and options.
A long, visually intimidating par 4 with a narrow pine corridor and subtle dogleg. Staying left of the bunkers on the drive gives you a clearer look at a well-defended green.
Find the fairway—distance does you no favors if you’re blocked by trees. Smart players will play for position and favor the green’s open side on approach.
Wayward drives can be stymied by pines, and a missed approach right brings bunkers and a tough up-and-down.
Bentgrass greens in strong shape, good overall turf conditions, and tree-lined beauty throughout.
Generally steady pace; not a high-end resort wait, but busy days may run 4.5 hours.
Relaxed, golfer-friendly and casual—zero pretense or stuffiness.
Standard public golf attire; nothing stricter was found.
Don’t let the yardage tempt you—this course plays tighter than it looks; pick a set that fits your game and enjoy the walk.
Northern Michigan can change quickly, so pack layers and be ready for morning chill or afternoon sun.
Driver isn’t always the best play off the tee—brush up on hybrids and fairway woods for precision placement.
Course opens, designed by Bills and Childs
Hosts Michigan Amateur Championship
Hosts Michigan Amateur Championship
Donald L. Childs renovates and restores the course
Ranked #20 in Michigan by GolfPass
Michaywé Pines was one of the courses that helped establish Gaylord as a serious golf destination in northern Michigan. Its classic tree-lined fairways and strategy-focused design set the template for the region’s golf identity.
The 2004 renovation by Donald L. Childs didn’t just update bunkers—it converted tee-to-green grass to modern bentgrass, raising conditions and playability to new heights for regulars and tournament play.
The course’s testy, fair layout made it a repeat host for the Michigan Amateur—proof that it can challenge the best state players while remaining playable for everyday golfers.
Named for the towering pines that line its secluded fairways.
Hosted the prestigious Michigan Amateur twice in the 1990s.
Home to bluebird houses and wildlife-friendly landscaping.
One of the first courses that helped establish Gaylord as a golf destination.
Converted tee-to-green to bentgrass in 2004, elevating playing conditions.
Hall-of-fame resort pedigree—one of Michigan’s best public tests.
Modern design and big vistas in Gaylord’s hills.
One of the region’s acclaimed inland 'links'—worth the hour’s drive.
Enjoyable routing and fun holes for a full trip rotation.
Solid value and classic vibe, perfect for an extra round.
Stay in Gaylord for easy access to all area courses.
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. Southern Hills Golf Course a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character, making it a compelling counterpart to Michaywé Pines Golf Course.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. Atlantic Beach Country Club a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character, making it a compelling counterpart to Michaywé Pines Golf Course.
Why it matches: The Greenbrier Meadows Course is a natural next stop after Michaywé Pines Golf Course: it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Community Sentiment
See something inaccurate in this listing?